Batesville Mayor Touts City's People as Its Greatest Asset

Mayor Rick Elumbaugh highlights economic growth, infrastructure improvements, and community spirit in annual State of the City address.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 8:39am

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In his annual State of the City address, Batesville Mayor Rick Elumbaugh praised the city's people as its greatest asset, highlighting the community's strong partnerships, dedicated city employees, and shared belief in Batesville's potential. Elumbaugh touted the city's economic development, infrastructure upgrades, and new entertainment and recreational offerings, while also acknowledging the challenges of rising costs. Despite these obstacles, the mayor expressed confidence that Batesville's best days are still ahead as the city continues to invest in its future.

Why it matters

Batesville's State of the City address provides insight into the city's priorities and progress, showcasing how a community-focused approach to governance and development can drive growth and enhance quality of life for residents. The mayor's emphasis on the city's people and collaborative spirit underscores the importance of civic engagement and public-private partnerships in shaping a thriving local economy and vibrant community.

The details

In his address, Mayor Elumbaugh highlighted Batesville's recent achievements, including the recruitment of 27 new businesses, 36 ribbon cuttings, and major infrastructure projects like a new water treatment plant. He also noted the city's successful efforts to lift a longstanding consent order from the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality by upgrading the wastewater treatment system. The mayor touted the expansion of Riverside Park, the opening of new restaurants and retail on Main Street, and the construction of a performing arts center and other community amenities.

  • In 2025 alone, the chamber welcomed 27 new businesses and celebrated 36 ribbon cuttings.
  • In 2008, the city was notified of sewer overflow and infrastructure issues, leading to a consent order that was lifted in 2026 after 18 years.
  • Last April, the city experienced a major flooding event that required close monitoring of river levels and installation of floodgates along the levee system.

The players

Mayor Rick Elumbaugh

The mayor of Batesville, Arkansas, who has served in the role for 19 years and 3 months.

Crystal Johnson

The president and CEO of the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, who has led the organization's efforts to promote economic development and recruit new businesses to the city.

Cameron Bandy

A representative from the office of U.S. Senator Tom Cotton, who attended the State of the City address.

Elijah Snow

A representative from the office of U.S. Congressman Rick Crawford, who also attended the State of the City address.

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What they’re saying

“For those who remember, our floodwalls were constructed in the mid-1980s. It came up so fast that water was in the cabs of pickup trucks; we probably lost 50 to 75 vehicles in that flood. ... FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) came in and we ended up with the levee system we have today. We appreciate that levee but you may not realize how fortunate we are to have that levee in place.”

— Mayor Rick Elumbaugh, Mayor of Batesville

“Despite these challenges, our sales tax revenue remains solid, and this administration and the city council will continue to carefully manage your resources and make responsible decisions to protect the long-term stability of our city.”

— Mayor Rick Elumbaugh, Mayor of Batesville

What’s next

The city plans to break ground on a new splash pad and inclusive playground at Riverside Park in the coming months, further expanding the park's amenities. Fundraising efforts are also underway for a new Veterans Memorial Park to be located within Riverside Park.

The takeaway

Batesville's focus on community-driven development, strategic infrastructure investments, and public-private partnerships has positioned the city for continued growth and enhanced quality of life for its residents. The mayor's emphasis on the city's people as its greatest asset underscores the importance of civic engagement and a shared vision for the future in driving local progress.